Robinho reveals how Chelsea ruined deal which led to him signing for Manchester City

EXPLAINED

The Blues’ presumptive arrogance apparently scuppered the transfer

Former Manchester City attacker Robinho has detailed how his shock 2008 transfer from Real Madrid came to pass.

The Brazilian, who now plays for Sivasspor in Turkey, became the Citizens’ first mega money signing when they snatched him from Luis Filipe Scolari’s Chelsea for £32.5m on the final day of the summer window.

Robinho joined Manchester City on the same day the club was bought out by the Abu Dhabi United Group

“I wanted to go to Chelsea,” Robinho revealed to FourFourTwo, “Scolari told me that I could make the difference for him in the team.

“However, Real Madrid ended up badly with them, they didn’t like the way that Chelsea sold shirts with my name on them before the deal was done.

“I am sure it was this that led to the negotiations to fail and it was a case of pride for Real Madrid.

“They were also reluctant to let me move to a club that was playing in the Champions League that season. Chelsea were, but City weren’t.”

Robinho’s first goal for City ironically came against Chelsea

The 34-year-old’s time in Manchester wasn’t as fruitful as many had expected and he left just 18 months into his four-year deal.

Despite this, Robinho doesn’t have any negative emotions when he looks back at the decision.

“I moved to a great club and they welcomed me in the best way. I had one-and-a-half years of joy in Manchester, despite the city being a lot colder than Madrid!

“I don’t regret leaving Madrid but I am sorry that it ended badly when I went.”